What are the Side Effects of Drinking Boost Everyday?

December 5, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the Boost website, it is generally recommended to have up to two Boost nutritional drinks per day, unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional. However, consuming Boost daily may lead to several side effects, such as digestive problems, weight gain, and strain on the organs.

Quick Summary

This article discusses the possible health risks of consuming Boost daily, including digestive discomfort, metabolic issues due to excessive sugar, and potential kidney strain from high protein levels. It also examines the nutritional content of Boost, along with the short-term and long-term implications of regular consumption without a medical need.

Key Points

Digestive Issues: Regular Boost consumption can cause short-term gastrointestinal problems, such as bloating, diarrhea, and constipation as your body adjusts.
Excess Sugar Risks: Many Boost varieties have high levels of added sugar, which may result in weight gain, blood sugar spikes, and an increased risk of diabetes and heart disease over time.
Kidney and Liver Strain: The high protein and vitamin content can place undue strain on the kidneys and liver, particularly with prolonged use.
Nutrient Imbalance: Daily Boost intake can result in an excess of certain vitamins and minerals, which can lead to adverse health effects such as headaches, liver damage, or nausea.
Weight Gain: If consumed in addition to a normal diet, the high-calorie content of Boost can contribute to weight gain.
Medication Interference: The high vitamin K content can interfere with certain medications, like blood thinners, and other supplements can interact with prescribed drugs.
Dependency Cycle: The sugar rush from drinking Boost regularly can create a dependency, causing energy crashes and a reliance on the drink for energy.

Understanding the Boost Formula: Ingredients and Nutritional Impact

Boost nutritional drinks are formulated to offer a combination of protein, carbohydrates, fat, and a wide array of vitamins and minerals. While beneficial for individuals with specific nutritional needs, such as those recovering from illness, those with low appetite, or those looking to gain weight, they are not intended for regular, long-term use by otherwise healthy individuals. Many varieties contain significant amounts of added sugar, which is used to enhance flavor but can contribute to health issues. The high concentration of synthetic vitamins and minerals, while beneficial in measured doses for deficiencies, can become problematic when added to a regular diet that already provides these nutrients.

The Impact of Excessive Sugar and Empty Calories

Most Boost products contain a substantial amount of added sugar. For instance, Boost Original has 15g of added sugars, which is 30% of the recommended daily value. Excessive sugar intake can lead to a host of problems over time. The body quickly metabolizes these simple carbohydrates, causing a rapid spike in blood sugar followed by a crash, which can leave you feeling fatigued. Consistent high sugar intake is linked to weight gain, increased risk of type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. For individuals without specific medical needs requiring supplemental calories, these added sugars and high-calorie content can easily lead to unwanted weight gain.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects

One of the most commonly reported side effects of drinking Boost, particularly when starting or consuming it frequently, are gastrointestinal issues. These can include:

Constipation: Some individuals experience constipation, especially if they replace fiber-rich whole foods with the drink.
Diarrhea: Others may experience diarrhea, bloating, or stomach discomfort as their digestive system adjusts to the new liquid supplement.
Nausea: A feeling of nausea can occur, particularly if consumed on an empty stomach or in large quantities.

These symptoms often subside over a few days as the body gets used to the supplement, but persistent issues indicate that it may not be suitable for regular use.

The Risks of High Protein Intake

While protein is essential, an overabundance, especially from supplements, can be taxing on the body, particularly the kidneys. For healthy individuals who already consume enough protein through their regular diet, adding a high-protein supplement like Boost daily can put extra strain on the kidneys to process and filter waste products. Over time, this added workload could potentially lead to kidney dysfunction, particularly in those with pre-existing kidney conditions. This is a key reason why nutritional supplements like Boost should only be used as directed by a healthcare provider.

Over-supplementation and Nutrient Imbalances

Boost drinks contain a wide spectrum of vitamins and minerals, often providing a high percentage of the daily recommended intake per serving. When consumed as a supplement to an otherwise balanced diet, this can lead to over-supplementation of certain nutrients. For example, too much Vitamin A can cause headaches and liver damage, while excess iron can cause nausea and vomiting. Long-term intake of high doses of certain vitamins can have adverse effects.

Comparison: Boost vs. Whole Foods


Feature	Boost Original Drink	Whole Foods (Example: Yogurt Smoothie)
Nutrient Source	Processed, synthetic nutrients.	Natural, bioavailable nutrients.
Sugar Content	High added sugar (15g in Original).	Often contains natural fruit sugars; can be controlled.
Fiber	Very low to non-existent.	High in fiber, especially with fruits and seeds.
Additives	May contain preservatives and stabilizers.	No artificial additives.
Digestion	Liquid form can be processed quickly, potentially leading to blood sugar spikes.	Slower digestion due to fiber, promoting steady energy.
Satiety	Can feel less filling than solid food, leading to overconsumption.	More satisfying and aids in appetite control.

Special Considerations and Medical Advice

Individuals with specific health conditions, such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or sensitivities to ingredients, must exercise extreme caution. The high sugar content can destabilize blood glucose levels, and the vitamin K content can interfere with blood-thinning medications like Warfarin. As highlighted by the National Institutes of Health, supplements can interact with medicines and cause problems. It is crucial to consult a doctor or registered dietitian before incorporating a daily Boost regimen, especially for those with existing health issues or who are pregnant or nursing.

Conclusion: Moderation is Key for a Balanced Diet

While Boost nutritional drinks have a place in managing specific dietary needs under medical supervision, they are not a substitute for a balanced, whole-food diet for the average person. The potential side effects of drinking Boost everyday are significant and can include digestive distress, weight gain from excess calories and sugar, and undue strain on organs like the kidneys. The key takeaway is that for most people, the nutritional needs met by Boost can and should be achieved through a varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Over-relying on a processed supplement for daily nutrition carries a risk of metabolic and organ stress that can undermine overall health in the long run. Anyone considering daily use should consult a healthcare provider to ensure it aligns with their specific health profile and goals, rather than assuming more is better.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for any health-related concerns or before starting a new supplement regimen.

American Heart Association: How Much Sugar Is Too Much?

Frequently Asked Questions

For most healthy adults, drinking Boost everyday is not necessary and could potentially be harmful. It is designed to supplement a balanced diet for those with specific nutritional needs, not as a daily dietary staple.

Yes, if you consume Boost in addition to your regular calorie intake without increasing physical activity, the extra calories and high sugar content can contribute to weight gain.

Common digestive issues include bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and nausea, which can occur as your body adapts to the supplement.

For healthy individuals, moderate protein intake is generally fine, but excessive daily consumption can place additional strain on the kidneys, especially for those with pre-existing kidney conditions.

Yes, some ingredients in Boost, particularly Vitamin K, can interfere with medications like blood thinners (e.g., Warfarin). It is critical to consult your doctor before using any supplement with prescribed medication.

While Boost is marketed as a nutritional drink, it is not a complete replacement for a balanced, whole-food meal. Whole foods provide fiber and other nutrients that Boost lacks.

Individuals who are generally healthy, those sensitive to high sugar content, people with kidney disease, those on blood thinners, and individuals who are pregnant or nursing should consult a healthcare provider before regular consumption.

Yes, the rapid sugar rush from Boost can lead to energy crashes and a cycle of dependency. A balanced diet and lifestyle are more sustainable sources of energy.